Republic Bank yesterday welcomed its third batch of school leavers to its Youth Link Apprenticeship programme at a simple ceremony at the Pegasus Hotel where the education minister called for other private sector entities to “emulate this programme”.
In his feature address Shaik Baksh said that Republic Bank was investing in the youth of Guyana with this apprenticeship programme. While Baksh noted that it is important to prepare young people for the world of work and that it should start in school, he admitted that his ministry has not really embarked building entrepreneurial skills. He said this should be developed and added in the secondary and technical curriculum to prepare young people for the world of work.
Meanwhile, John Alves, Managing Director encouraged the 25 participants in this year’s programme “to be active participants in this exercise”.
“The Republic Bank Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme very simply seeks to prepare school leavers to become successful, model employees and a true asset to any organisation at the end of the apprenticeship with Republic Bank,” Alves said.
Director Yolande Foo in a motivational speech, urged the apprentices to, “Make the opportunity you have been afforded count…”
The 25 participants in this year’s apprenticeship programme were selected from schools in Georgetown, Linden, Berbice, Uitvlugt and Anna Regina.
During a seven-week programme the participants will be given the necessary tools, training and coaching and guidance as well as take part in field trips and Care-a-Van, which introduces the element of compassion and care for the less fortunate.
The participants will be placed at the various branches of the bank.
Upon completion of the programme participants will be presented with certificates at a graduation ceremony.
Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme was first introduced some years ago by Republic Bank’s parent company in Trinidad and Tobago and was introduced to Guyana two years ago and has so far been deemed a success.
